All The Monitor's View
Biden's first use of force overseasA retaliatory airstrike on Iran-backed militias in Syria opens an opportunity for the president to show leadership in setting thresholds and responsibilities for any U.S. military action.
Why protest signs in Myanmar are in EnglishThe anti-coup demonstrators are appealing to a more sophisticated global “peace industry” that can track peaceful assembly and shine a light on local conflicts.
Shaping a new Syria, one verdict at a timeSyrian refugees carried the ideals of the Arab Spring into a German courtroom that convicted one of the regime’s torturers.
The only path for India, PakistanA truce in Kashmir and an agreement to discuss “core” issues between the two rivals makes sense in light of bigger concerns and opportunities.
How might pro sports bounce back?During the pandemic, the altered scheduling generally has led to dips in viewership. But the comeback for sports could bring surprises.
Why China's homeowners prefer universal rightsDespite the ruling party’s dismissal of “universal values,” resident associations are demanding free elections of their leaders based on ideas such as equality and liberty.
Taking measure of Biden's unity callAs Congress takes up his proposals, it can also reflect his request to “eliminate the vitriol.”
A bright light on Russian justiceA European court with jurisdiction in Russia has ordered the release of leading dissident Alexei Navalny, exposing the weakness of arbitrary rule under President Vladimir Putin.
Blackouts in Texas put a light on how to make energy choicesThe Arctic cold snap that shut down power sources has forced Texans to rethink their own role in electricity supply.
The saffron color of power in MyanmarThe military’s Feb. 1 coup has focused not only on pro-democracy civilian leaders but Buddhist monks, whose moral and spiritual legitimacy holds sway over who rules in Myanmar.
The world’s answer to pandemic nationalismTo counter rising protectionism, the major countries picked an African woman to lead the World Trade Organization, one who seeks “a new spirit of kindness” to counter the pandemic’s effects.
A “love project” to counter religious stereotypes in IndiaAs the ruling Hindu-based party passes laws banning interfaith marriage, couples of differing faiths speak out in favor of true marriage.
Italy gets a leader with good bedside mannersBoth the EU and Italy are at enough of a crisis point that they need the special qualities of Mario Draghi, who saved the euro as head of the European Central Bank.
With more people displaced, high praise for gracious hospitalityIn a year of rising humanitarian needs, some countries step up with a welcoming spirit, earning praise from global leaders.
When nations yearn for both justice and unityThe U.S. Senate trial of former President Donald Trump fits into a recent history of countries trying to seek both reconciliation and accountability. Colombia provides an example of finding that balance.
The sum of many mediators in Yemen's warA flurry of diplomacy to end one of the Middle East’s worst conflicts suggests all sides might see a shared interest in peace.
Neighborly nudges to restore Myanmar's democracyTwo of Southeast Asia’s democracies call for an urgent meeting in the region to reverse the military coup in Myanmar.
Beethoven rolls over Russian policeA dissident who played a calming Beethoven tune while being arrested is another example of how the arts are changing protests worldwide.
How honesty helps heal during a pandemicAnti-corruption protests in Africa during COVID-19 reveal a rising demand for integrity in governance and management of the crisis.
Green accounting starts to add upInvestments in nature and its biodiversity make economic sense, finds a British study, far more than short-term exploitation.
